Facebook To Start Testing Augmented Reality Ads In The News Feed, Allowing Users To Virtually Interact With Products

During an event yesterday (July 11th) in New York for media, Facebook announced that it will start testing augmented reality ads in the News Feed. 

Ty Ahmad-Taylor, vice president of product marketing for Facebook’s global marketing solutions, revealed that the new feature will let users virtually interact with products such as fashion accessories, cosmetics, furniture, and much more.  The ads will look like traditional ads, however, there will also be a "Tap to try it on" button.

Facebook will test AR ads first with Michael Kors with an ad that allows users to browse through different styles of sunglasses, virtually "put them on," and have the option to purchase. Other brands such as Sephora, Pottery Barn, and Wayfair that are expected to get AR ads in the near future. 

With Facebook entering the AR ad space, that only means bad news for Snapchat, which is currently dominating the space. Facebook has had great success with "copying" Snapchat features (i.e. Stories) and making them even better so one would have to think that it has the ability do the same with AR ads. 

AR adds a whole new dynamic to online advertising as well as the online shopping experience. Look for more brands to incorporate some form of AR into their advertising efforts over the next few years.